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Brett Donelson has brought to town the newest non-profit "The Cycle Effect," which held its inaugural fundraiser recently at the Westin Riverfront Resort and Spa. "The Cycle Effect" is designed to empower girls through mountain bike training and competition, and mentoring and education. Health and fitness, encouragement and positive role-modeling all come into play with The Cycle Effect. And speaking of play, there was a lot of that going on at "Foos and Brews" to support The Cycle Effect.

"We have foosball, ping pong, ladder ball, DJ's and dancing and a general good vibe feel," Donelson said.

It was refreshing to see people being active while they socialized and learned about the new non-profit. Event manager Erika Ghent has known Donelson for a long time, as he was her coach at Ski Club Vail back in the day.

"I had one of my best years when he was my coach," Ghent said, remembering his advice, "Erika, ski as fast as you can." Her sister, Christa echoed her words, "He was one of my favorite coaches at Ski Club Vail."

"Someone had better utilize her in a big way because she is super talented and such an asset," Donelson said. After sustaining numerous ski race injuries, Christa Ghent has turned her attention to road bike racing, which, though a departure from the family ski

WIth The Cycle Effect, Donelson uses his expertise in coaching and inspiring young athletes to push themselves in mind, body and spirit, and he is looking forward to a successful program that has many years of great things to come. Look for them out on the trails this biking season.